|
Source:
DSM178/A ALLIANCE TEMERANCE MELODIST The Temperance Societies and Bands of Hope of Australia. Sydney. 1880s Smith & Gardiner Small songbook. Hard cover. Tune: Rose of Allandale SITE SOURCE: Sydney Folklore - SECTION9: Demon drink and teetotalism I've Heard The Praise of Rosy WineI've heard the praise of rosy wine,In dulcet measure sung; And oft with wild and loud applause, The festive hall has rung. Let drunkards wake their noisy harps, And Bacchus' praises sing – By far the sweetest drink for me Is water from the spring Is water from the spring Is water from the spring By far the sweetest drink for me Is water from the spring Whenever I wander from my home How distant, far or wide, I fear no danger on my way, While temperance is my guide; While here my course I fearless steer, Secure beneath her wing; And health and happiness I enjoy, By water from the spring. She shelters me from all the ills The drunkard knows and feels; She gives me health and happiness, And sorrow often heals; Along the thorny path of life, Oft-sweet repose she'll bring – Like infant's sleep – as sweet and pure As water from the spring. |